The Denver Broncos fired head coach Nathaniel Hackett on Monday after just 15 games as the franchise’s head coach.
Hackett was hired by the Broncos last offseason after serving as the Packers’ offensive coordinator the previous three seasons.
Green Bay’s offense hasn’t been as crisp without Hackett on staff. Part of that obviously has to do with the absence of wide receiver Davante Adams, who was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this year.
Hackett, however, was critical to Green Bay’s success over the last few seasons.
Green Bay runs Matt LaFleur’s offense. And LaFleur calls plays. But even with that setup, Hackett was still extremely important to the Packers — specifically because of his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.
Rodgers made it clear last season that Hackett was an important part of Green Bay’s success. In fact, Rodgers even suggested in 2021 that he might follow Hackett.
“’Hack’ has been a really important part of our culture change,” said Rodgers last season. “And a part of our success on offense. I love him. I hope he doesn’t go anywhere… Unless I do.”
It’s clear that Rodgers and the Packers have missed him this season. And now that he’s available, it seems logical for him to return to Green Bay (I don’t think the role truly matters — just as long as he gets to be around Rodgers every day).
I’m sure LaFleur hates to see Hackett lose his job and he should jump at the opportunity to bring the former Packers offensive coordinator back to Green Bay.